LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Nov. 17, 2011) -- Heifer International has been selected to receive a $10,000 grant from Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, to further Heifer's work to end hunger and poverty and care for the Earth. Based on results of an employee vote, Pioneer chose Heifer to receive the company's quarterly Global Gold Award, which is given to a charitable organization that has a global impact.
Pioneer, a U.S. seed company, makes philanthropic contributions to organizations where its employees and customers live and work. Emphasis is given to efforts that support quality-of-life initiatives to create an improved, sustainable lifestyle for people worldwide. Heifer International embodies that ideal, with its projects providing livestock and training that will generate nutrition and income for families living in poverty.
"Our mission is to nurture strategic relationships with the common purpose of implementing community, education, and nutritional initiatives to improve the quality of life for people worldwide," said Michelle Gowdy, Pioneer Community Investment senior manager. "We are pleased to support Heifer International because the organization aligns closely with our strategic goals."
Heifer provides training in sustainable agriculture and small business skills that help participants become self-reliant. In addition, Heifer's livestock gifts multiply to produce additional life-giving animals. Every recipient is required to Pass On the Gift® of their animal's first-born offspring to another needy family.
"We at Heifer are honored to receive this gift from Pioneer," said Steve Denne, Heifer's Chief Operating Officer. "Heifer is an ideal vehicle for a donation that seeks a transformative impact. Our model ensures that families will gain the means and skills for self-sufficiency long after the Heifer project has ended."
About Heifer International
Heifer's mission is to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income. Heifer is currently working in 50 countries, including the United States, to help families and communities become more self-reliant. For more information, visit www.heifer.org or call (800) 696-1918.